7.30.2010

Jewelry Review: Jules Smith

Gina Nigrelli, designer behind Jules Smith, a vintage-inspired jewelry collection, is at the forefront of modernizing accessory trends from the 1970’s and 80’s. Her pieces are influenced by the strength and style of the iconic women of those trend-setting decades.

Nigrelli’s designs span timeless silver, rose gold and sterling silver bangles, edgy knuckle rings encrusted with crystals, jelly charm bracelets, bold chain link necklaces and bracelets, opulent hoop and chandelier earrings, leather cuffs and vibrant neon-hued bracelets, amongst others. Top-selling styles include the Best Friend Wing Necklace, which is a modern interpretation of the beloved 1980’s “BFF Necklace,” and her jelly bracelets, a nod to Madonna’s iconic “Like a Virgin” look. Jules Smith marries the reminiscent with the contemporary by continuing to evolve her line with timely details and eclectic materials.

“My jewelry is whimsical, fun and effortless, inspired by powerful women, who exuded their confidence and self-assuredness through bold fashion and accessory statements,” says Nigrelli.

Gina Nigrelli’s love for vintage fashion and accessories began while studying abroad in Harare, Zimbabwe, where she found herself sketching and collecting rare pieces. When she returned to the US, she formally began her fashion career at Diesel in Las Vegas. She then earned a degree in fashion design at The International Academy of Design in Chicago, IL. Gina and her husband, entrepreneur and sommelier Brian Smith, relocated to the Caribbean in 2006. It was on the island of St. Thomas that Jules Smith was born. After two years of commuting between New York and St. Thomas, the couple settled full-time in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, where they currently reside.